Written and performed by James Gordon,

Song and Rants Man

Canadian songwriter/playwright/author/activist and former politician James Gordon has a history of producing topical ‘one-man’ shows. His last, “James Gordon’s Emergency Climate Musical” was a success across the country, so much so that there’s demand for a reboot since the show didn’t actually seem to solve that crisis. In looking at the possibilities, James observed that nothing can really be accomplished in climate mitigation until we work to remove the biggest obstacle in keeping our planet sustainable and thriving: The Oligarchy!

              Since a major theme of this new work is gathering in community and ‘going local’ James is offering this 90-minute performance as a 50/50 fundraiser to climate, social justice and other non-partisan activist organizations. In other words, James pays the expenses (hall rental, tech costs, insurance, promotion etc.), deducts that from the gross tickets sales, and splits the profit with the organization. (This work is James’ livelihood). 

The organization would set up a booth at the show, make a short speech about its activities, and hopefully provide volunteers for the event as well as promoting the performance through their networks. It’s a win win really. 

Smashing the Oligarchy, filled with insights, humour, visual images, and some grim reality observations, has 15 original songs, some ranting, a post-show discussion, debuted in  2025 and is now taking bookings for '26 and beyond.

Some of the songs have been recycled from Gordon’s previous work, because recycling is good for the environment. 

James will perform solo, and he’ll bring a car-load of instruments with him. 

Let James know if you might be interested by contacting james@jamesgordon.ca or 226-971-9132 

Its debut performances were in Guelph Ontario, and here’s what the Guelph Climate Action Network, the activist group partner in the production, had to say about it:

"James Gordon’s Smashing the Oligarchy  entertains, creates connections, sparks conversations, and inspires communities to take action for a world that works for everyone. His songs and rants, rooted in truth, community and people power, weave humour, wit, and insight in equal measure. Through decades of songwriting, performing, and community engagement, James continues to find new and entertaining ways to shine a bright light  on the critical issues of our times:  democracy, oligarchy, inequality, climate change and more.

Smashing the Oligarchy highlights James’  unwavering commitment to people power, social solidarity  and the common good.  His simply unstoppable spirit helped raise an incredible amount for our programs!   You don’t just raise funds - you raise hope! Thank you James  for being a true champion for the people!  Highly recommended!"

The US debut was in the fall just outside of Washington DC to a full house at the Greenbelt Arts Center. They Said: "perfectly resonates with Greenbelt's vibe" 

"After years of insightful, humorous, and even angry works the old man still has a lot to say . He speaks from the heart as well as from a social conscience and he believes that the power in the people can institute acceptance and change. It's was an honour and privilege to spend the time with him."

You can now view the online version of the show, complete with the slides you'll see in the live presentation, in Two Acts , Here: 

Here are some Links To songs that are in the show.. 

“Nothing Mattered In The End”

https://youtu.be/5TEsIYAQx8w?si=fY5yMixdYWNSsY3y

“Fall and Rise”

https://youtu.be/nvta0-hmw2s?si=Q_t11l_OjdxTLS3u

“Pledge To Mother Earth”

https://youtu.be/76Lzmb-NP_I?si=9LEuOlwhm7Gwedbu

“the System Isn’t Broken It was Made That Way”

https://youtu.be/F_npxFc2Byo?si=9GlrbxzBspMtuaVA